How to Try OpenClaw for Free Without Adding Credit

Use OpenClaw's normal install path, scan the free catalog, and only set a default model after you verify what is actually available.

If your goal is just to validate a workflow, you do not need to preload a paid balance. The practical approach is to install OpenClaw, scan the free catalog without probing, then set a default only after you know which models are still surfaced.

Quick answer

Use openclaw models scan --no-probe to inspect free catalog candidates first, then set your primary model and confirm the result with openclaw models status.

Command line steps

1. Install and finish onboarding

The first pass only needs a working local gateway and a valid config file.

2. Scan free candidates before you set anything as default

OpenClaw can inspect OpenRouter's free catalog. Without a key, --no-probe still gives you a clean list to work from.

3. Set the first model you actually want to test

After you choose a candidate, make it primary and re-check the resolved state.

What to check if it still fails

• If models scan returns nothing, your provider filter is probably too strict. Retry without --provider.
• If you want live probing, add the provider key first and rerun without --no-probe.
• If a model disappears after selection, it may not be in your allowlist. Use openclaw configure --section model to review the picker.